Rosatom is advancing its move toward domestic computing by testing the Bober personal computers, built on the Baikal processor, within its own industrial infrastructure, according to Rosatom’s public statements. The initiative involves Rosenergoatom, a concern under Rosatom, which has acquired an initial domestic batch of Bober PCs and is in the process of integrating them into its manufacturing operations. This shift to locally produced processing units marks a strategic step toward technological independence in sectors regarded as sensitive and critical, including nuclear energy.
Bober is a universal Russian computer crafted by Delta Computers and powered by the Baikal-M processor. The primary operating system on these machines is Astra Linux Special Edition named Novorossiysk. Importantly, Bober has earned certification across a broad spectrum of operating systems, including Microsoft Windows and Rosa Linux, reflecting a flexible approach to software compatibility. The project underscores the broader push for domestically developed hardware and software ecosystems within key national industries.
Commentary on the broader hardware landscape comes from Maksut Shadayev, who previously led Russia’s Ministry of Digital Development. He noted that the current shortage of Russian processors creates dependence on manufacturing hubs outside the country. He also suggested that if all Taiwan-produced chips could be redirected to domestic users, the volume of devices powered by the Russian Baikal and Elbruz processors could expand significantly, potentially reshaping the supply chain for critical tech in Russia.
The ongoing testing and planned deployment of Bober systems illustrate a broader policy aim to bolster self-sufficiency in technology that underpins national security and industrial resilience. Analysts point to the importance of a robust domestic semiconductor sector as part of a wider strategy to reduce exposure to international disruptions and to foster local expertise in hardware and software integration. The conversation around Bober also highlights the role of open compatibility, with the device supporting multiple operating environments while emphasizing a strong preference for secure, government-aligned platforms.
Industry observers emphasize that the success of such projects depends not only on hardware performance but also on supply chains, developer ecosystems, and the ability to secure timely updates and long-term support for native and foreign operating systems. As Russia continues to evaluate the balance between domestic production and international collaboration, the Bober program serves as a tangible example of how large-scale infrastructure can be modernized using homegrown technology without compromising operational reliability. The implications extend beyond the nuclear sector, potentially informing future capabilities across energy, manufacturing, and critical state functions, where control over computing hardware and software is increasingly linked to strategic autonomy.